Recording Handbook - Hol.gr

SECTION VI: REPRODUCTION
6.1) Should we do tapes or CD's?
Yes. :)
My guidelines: For a first project, a demo, anything under 9 songs, or a shoestring, do tapes. For
everthing else, if you can afford it, do CD's. They carry more prestige, last longer, and sound
better.
6.2) Should we master it?
Yes, unless you REALLY can't afford it. Mastering makes a difference that's not so much audible
but emotional. Well, it's audible, too, but it's only really noticeable in its absence. Remember that
every CD you see on your shelf is mastered. (Strangely, most of them by one man -- Bob Ludwig
at Masterdisk in New York City.)
6.3) How much does it cost?
These prices are estimates based on memory. Your mileage may vary. Check with your duplicator
for real numbers.
A run of 100 tapes costs about $250 from a reputable, quality duplicator. J-cards are extra.
The glass master for a CD costs about $500, less if you're getting duplication from the same
company. CDs cost $1-$2 apiece, depending on the quality. Jewel cases, inserts, and backcards are
extra.
Most duplicators offer package deals where they'll master, duplicate, and provide printed material
for one price. Most include shrink-wrapping.
If you'll be distributing your product in record stores, you'll need a UPC code. I understand that
they cost about $300 to register, then you need to pay for them to be printed. (Or you can include it
on the backcard or J-card.)
6.4) Should we do a slick package, or handwritten labels?
For a gig demo, handwriting is fine. For anything else, you should really have printed labels and
cards.
6.5) How long does it take?
Most tape duplicators take about a week, more for runs over 2500. CD duplicators take from 3
weeks to 3 months, depending on their backlog. Backlogs increase late in the year, for some reason
-- maybe Christmas compilations. They ease up around February, and late spring is the fastest time
of the year.
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